It's a horror story most, if not all pet parents are familiar with: taking your pet to a groomer. No matter your pet's age, or how often they take a tour down to the movers, it's always a scary day when they get out the cage and the lease, and they know it's not to go to the park.
Well, one can hardly blame the animals in this situation. The barbershop is an unfamiliar environment, touched by new people, and for a helpless little pet, it can be very intimidating. This fear is often caused by or caused by anxiety, and in some rare cases, it can turn into hostility on the part of the pet.
So, how do we prevent this? Of course, there is no sure way to ensure that a pet does not experience anxiety or hostility while visiting, but there are several ways to make the experience more enjoyable, comfortable, and safe for them.
The first step to this is recognizing stress in cats and dogs, and letting them know they'll be fine. Here are some signs of stress to look out for:
In dogs
speed back and forth wildly; Don't stay still
Frequent panting and salivation
Sniff everything around them. Acting suspicious of everything
Constant barking to show disapproval
In cats
hide
constant grooming
accidental urination
dilated pupils; twitching of the ears and back; Unstable tail
Once you've identified these signs, the next step will be to make them feel safe and comfortable. You can give them a treat and sneak in a few pets and cuddles to help them feel better.
Preparing for the visit:
Talk to your groomer about feeding rules. Usually, it is recommended to leave a gap of at least 4-5 hours between the last meal and the time of the visit. This is to ensure that their stress does not cause them to vomit or defecate on the road or in the nanny.
For small dogs and all cats, a roomy carrier is suggested. If you are taking multiple pets, it is best to take them in separate carriers. That way they won't get suffocated, which reduces the chances of feeding their anxiety and making it worse.
Get Matt Muffs. Matt muffs are ear but for animals. Because in the grooming salon, your pet will be exposed to a number of loud sounds such as hair dryers, electric hair clippers, etc. These loud sounds can induce sensory overload, so you better be prepared for that.
Keep giving them treats as reassurance. Treats will make them feel loved and protected.
While at Groomer
So now that everyone has made it safe and sound for the groomer, how can we make our pets feel better and at home?
The first suggestion is to stay with them throughout the visit (as far as possible and permissible). It is important for your pet to realize and register that you have not abandoned them.
If while at the groomer your pet starts to become aggressive, consider a muzzle or cone. We do not usually suggest anti-anxiety medications, however, if instances of aggression persist for more than a couple of visits, it is best to consult your pet's vet to suggest treatment and/or medication.
What are some other things you can do?
Start taking them to a groomer at an early age so they get better used to the process.
It is suggested that you do not change grooming tools frequently (or at all, until and unless absolutely necessary, or their services are inadequate). This should make your pet feel more comfortable and at home, with every other visit.
Take them for a drive to happy places. That way, they won't associate getting into the car with going to the groomer, and the trip will at least be a somewhat peaceful one.
Most importantly, if you realize that your pet really hates going to a groomer, it's best to find a groomer, who will come to your place and perform all the services one would expect in a professional grooming salon.